43867 research outputs found
Sort by
Relational leadership and its influence on school culture in an independent combined school in Gauteng
Full text linkAbstract: The influence of relationships within an organisation is an important dimension to ponder in considering the culture of an organisation. A positive school culture is highly desirable as it encourages, among other attributes better academic performance, cooperation and respect, more job satisfaction, and less negative interactions between learners and staff. Application of the key characteristics and components of relational leadership promotes a positive school culture. The aim of this study was to explore how relational leadership shapes the school culture in an independent combined school in Gauteng. I used a case study design within an interpretivist paradigm. A stratified sampling approach was used to select participants from across the range of the school for semi-structured interviews. Documents pertaining to the school were analysed and the data from the transcribed interviews and document analysis were coded and categorised in order to attribute meaning. From the study it emerged that participants consider relational leadership in the context of servant leadership rather than as a leadership theory on its own. Nevertheless, because of the parallels between relational leadership theory and servant leadership, aspects of relational leadership could be identified as being implemented in the school, particularly trust, care, and reciprocity. These values promote a positive culture within the school. This study draws attention to the positive contribution that the practice of relational leadership has on the culture of a school. Keywords: relational leadership; school culture; care; trust; reciprocity.M.Ed. (Education Leadership and Management
A South African perspective on the corporate cash holding conundrum
Full text linkAbstract: Literature indicates that motives and capital structure theories have been developed to explain and substantiate why firms will hold cash. However, none of these theories seem to take into consideration what are deemed to be reasons for perpetual cash holdings increases. Therefore, it seems that even the transfer of value to shareholders via dividends or share buybacks does not have significant decreasing effects on the cash balances of these firms. Consequently, it needs to be understood what is important to a firm in terms of financial flexibility. Therefore, financial flexibility is an important determinant of a firm’s capital structure, in order to take advantage of unplanned opportunities and respond in a timely manner to unexpected events, and to increase the value of the firm. Cash management models are used to manage cash holdings levels in order to ensure that cash is optimally used for operational needs, to service debt and for investment opportunities. However, cash is not being used optimally to promote efficient cash management, due to the abnormal (excess) cash holdings levels recorded on a global scale as well as in South Africa. Past research explains the determinants for holding cash mainly of Non-Financial firms. Therefore, this study will investigate cash holdings trends and determinants for the Financial’ and Non-Financial firms in South Africa. In addition, trends and determinants of cash holdings will also be investigated on a disaggregated sectoral level. This study employs trend and panel data analysis and uses financial, market, and economic data for the period 2005 to 2019. The abnormal (excess) cash holdings 3 levels identified with the trend analysis informed the panel regression analysis to investigate the determinants of cash holdings. The internal (financial and market data) and external (economic data) determinants of cash holdings were found to be the same on an aggregated and disaggregated level. The findings are in line with past research and indicate that cash holdings levels changed in order to meet daily operational needs of firms, meet debt obligations, dividend pay-outs, for investment, and research & development opportunities. This indicates that cash holdings are due to Transaction, Precautionary, and Speculative reasons as postulated by Keynes (1936), which corroborate the Trade-Off and Pecking Order Theories. Furthermore, comparing coefficient sizes of financial and non-financial sectors with abnormal (excess) cash holdings exhibit higher coefficient sizes as opposed to sectors without. As a result, the higher coefficient size shows that the internal and external determinants of cash holdings have a greater effect on the cash holdings levels of these sectors. A prevalent finding is the significant relationships between external determinants and cash holdings for both aggregated and disaggregated level views. Therefore, due to poor economic conditions, firms in these sectors will apply the Precautionary motive of Keynes (1936) in order to meet their daily needs and as a result hold onto cash. The contributions of this study are firstly, the introduction and the use of the accounting cash ratio to show the presence of abnormal (excess) cash holdings and secondly, the inclusion of both Non-Financial and Financial firms with and without abnormal (excess) cash holdings to identify determinants of cash holdings. The implications of the findings of this study are that each sector operates differently and that each firm within each sector has differing cash management policies and procedures. Therefore, looking at 4 cash holdings behaviour on an aggregated level and assuming that all sectors and firms within the collective operate the same, is a flawed assumption as shown by this study. As a result, this study recommends that the regulations governing these sectors should be documented and reviewed regularly and published with a view to gaining a better understanding of operational fundamentals of these sectors. To promote good corporate governance, South African firms must begin to record their cash holdings trends by using the accounting cash ratio introduced by this study, and also to use this mechanism to set optimal levels of cash holdings. Hereby, the cash management process can be managed efficiently, and cash can be employed optimally, to achieve a good balance between liquidity and performance of the firm, which leads to firm value appreciation and better financial performance. This will ensure that there is transparency and accountability in terms of the cash holdings levels and the cash holdings decisions made by shareholders, boards of directors and at managerial firm level. Keywords: accounting cash ratio, cash holdings, internal and external determinants, corporate governance, panel regression analysis.D.Phil. (Accounting
A critical analysis of capital expenditure in the mining industry
Full text linkAbstract: The mining industry plays a pivotal role in the development of the economy as well as contributing to the gross domestic product of South Africa. In developing a mine, a substantial amount of upfront capital investment is required, therefore special relief provisions have been enacted for mining companies and to encourage more investments and exploration activities in the country. The special relief provisions are contained in section 15 read together with section 36 of the Income Tax Act No. 58 of 1962 (the Act). These provisions provide for a 100% capital expenditure deduction of costs incurred on prospecting activities, including any costs incurred during any period prior to the commencement of production or during a period of non-production. However, there are several uncertainties when applying section 15 read together with section 36 of the Act. The key uncertainty is in relation to the meaning of the words “capital expenditure”, which is not comprehensively defined in the Act. Therefore, the definition is left open to interpretation by the taxpayer which can easily be claimed under the incorrect section of the Act. This research study aims to address the lack of clarity and guidance on what would qualify as capital expenditure, by conducting a detailed analysis of the meaning of capital expenditure. A doctrinal methodology based on an interpretive paradigm that is qualitative in nature has been selected as the approach to the research problem. The conclusion drawn has been summarised and presented as a framework to be applied in establishing whether certain costs would qualify for favourable capital expenditure deduction.M.Com. (South African and International Taxation
The role of effective governance in the implementation of a LED framework : the case of Emfuleni Local Municipality
Full text linkAbstract: South Africa is one of the few countries in sub-Saharan Africa that has been embarking on a local economic development (LED) strategy (Malele, 2018). The adoption of the LED policy was motivated by the South African government’s objective of eradicating poverty, creating a large number of jobs, and building sustained economic growth (Koma, 2012). LED was seen as the key to redress the past challenges of the apartheid regime and create better conditions for all South Africans. Lewis (2012) explains that the LED policy was a bottom-up attempt by local actors to improve incomes, employment opportunities and quality of life of people in the communities, particularly in underdeveloped areas and areas undergoing structural adjustment. Since the institutionalisation of LED at local government level, local government has been unable to meet citizens’ demands. This failure is ascribed to inherent incapacities to plan for development, with major inabilities attributed to the lack of capacity within local municipalities; insufficient skilled LED practitioners; a lack of understanding of local economies; a lack of funding for LED; and a lack of integration between local authorities, communities and businesses (Hofisi & Mbeba, 2013; Nel & Rogerson, 2005; Rogerson, 2010). This study seeks to analyse how governance interventions have impacted the implementation of the LED framework in local municipalities. The study distinguishes between the dominant liberal approach to governance, which we call ‘marketenhancing’ governance (generally referred to as good governance), and an alternative view of governance, namely a developmental state governance approach. Findings from the study show that market-led governance reforms have acted as an obstacle to the implementation of the LED framework in South African municipalities. The study proposes that a developmental state governance approach should be considered when implementing the LED framework in municipalities.M.Com. (Local Economic Development
Risk management disclosures in South African banks
Full text linkAbstract: Banks are considered as risk-taking enterprises and therefore, it is expected that there should be disclosures of the relevant risks and the management thereof. The disclosures enables stakeholders and shareholders to assess and manage their risk positions in an organisation. The 2008 financial crisis has emphasised the need for high-quality risk management and the relevant disclosures, specifically in the banking sector. Providing significant risk disclosures helps banks to be transparent to their stakeholders and shareholders, who can then make informed decisions based on the banks’ performances, risk profiles, business profiles and risk management. Deriving from the literature reviewed, this study evaluates risk management disclosure requirements in terms of King IV and Basel III that should assist stakeholders in making informed decisions and enhances transparency in the banking sector. Through this, the study then develops a research instrument and using this instrument to evaluate whether the top four banks in South Africa comply with the risk management disclosure requirements. The results were gathered by analysing the annual integrated reports together with the Basel III reports of the top four banks. The results of the study indicate that only one, out of the top four banks did not fully comply with the risk management disclosure requirements of Basel III. The study did, however, indicate that all the top four banks complied with the risk management disclosure requirements of King IV...M.Com. (Computer Auditing
Effect of discrimination on immigrants’ job performance in the telecommunications sector
Full text linkAbstract: The employment acts, policies and regulations are put in place to bring about a conducive work environment, minimize discrimination, promote diversity and increase productivity in the workplace. Every organization aims to grow and make profits, so it is important to invest in human capital: the greatest assets that ensure that the organization is successful. Many factors affect one’s performance in the workplace, such as, the working environment, type of leadership, resources, organizational culture and how one is being treated in the workplace to mention a few. Unfair treatment in the workplace has a negative impact on the overall success of the organization. In an ever-changing world, people from different countries (immigrants) are scattered all over in search of greener pastures or exploring different cultures. Therefore, exploring the perceptions of immigrants with regards to how discrimination affects their performance is imperative. The study’s primary objective was to explore the effect of immigrants’ discrimination and how it affects job performance in the telecommunications sector. An effort was also made to find mechanisms that can be implemented to eliminate discrimination. The study adopted a phenomenology approach as it dealt with the employee’s personal experiences in a specific sector in the Gauteng province, South Africa. Data was collected from immigrants from different African countries through semi structured interviews done face-to-face, zoom, and skype and purposive sampling was used. The research findings revealed that there is a negative relationship between discrimination and job performance. The research participants further added that the unfair or different treatment is a form of emotional and mental abuse; it demotivates them to utilize their full potential thus negatively affecting productivity. Even though there are policies to ensure equal treatment in the workplace, it is not enough to permanently eliminate discrimination. Recommendations have been proposed in the current study to improve the status quo.M.Com. (Employment Relations
The experiences of tertiary students with acquired brain injury : a review
Full text linkAbstract: Background: The sequelae of acquired brain injury (ABI) - a brain insult after birth - is pervasive, often precluding survivors from resuming roles and contributing meaningfully to society. Among students, the impact of ABI on academic trajectory has been consistently documented, particularly in a school context. Tertiary students are not spared. Given the unique demands of higher learning, distinct challenges arise, requiring targeted support to facilitate academic success. Aim: I aimed to consolidate existing knowledge of experiences – including challenges and mitigating factors - of ABI survivors pursuing tertiary education. Furthermore, I sought to synthesize this with effective interventions and accommodations identified in promoting academic success among this student population. Methodological and geographical characteristics of existing research was analysed, to find gaps in current knowledge and guidelines for future research. Method: I adopted a narrative mixed method review design to consider all aspects of the described phenomena, whilst adhering to criteria outlined by the International Narrative Systematic Assessment (INSA) tool (La Torre et al., 2015). The scope of the literature search encompassed Taylor & Francis, SAGE Journals, EBSCO Host Journal and ERIC database, with articles selected on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Analysis of the final 30 articles revealed salient themes and findings expressed by descriptive statistics. Results: I identified 25 themes, 15 of which related to common experiences among tertiary students with at least one ABI of varying severity. Among articles proposing novel interventions to support these students, I uncovered 5 common themes. Finally, among articles that described the approach taken and accommodations offered by campus disability services, 4 common themes were identified. The majority of studies were conducted in USA (n=25), then Canada (n=3) and Australia (n=2). The preferred approach of these studies was quantitative (n=15), with qualitative close behind (n=12) and few opting for a mixed-method approach (n=3). Conclusion: The limited research in countries most burdened and leastequipped to facilitate academic success among university students with ABI, is highlighted. Existing knowledge is confined within higher income countries (HIC) who, despite the research done, lack an empirically sound approach to providing effective accommodations and interventions...M.A. (Counselling Psychology
Undergraduate LGBTQI students’ perceptions and awareness of safe sex practices and related institutional services at a Metropolitan University in South Africa
Full text linkAbstract: Globally, youth, particularly members of the LGBTQI community, are more at risk of contracting the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which has increased over the last three decades. This rise can be attributed to risky sexual behaviour that is fostered by societal prejudice, sexual and reproductive healthcare and safe sex programmes that exclude the LGBTQI youth. Locally, HIV infections in universities have increased over the last decade. Several studies have investigated the awareness and views of university students on safe sex practices but none with the LGBTQI students. Hence this study aimed to explore undergraduate LGBTQI students’ perceptions and awareness of safe sex practices and related institutional services at a metropolitan university in South Africa. The study objectives explored knowledge of internal and external condoms, masturbation, other possible safe sex activities, as well as recommendations for the institutional safe sex services and programmes. Several studies on safe sex practice among young people and LGBTQI vulnerability to HIV were investigated, including studies done at the chosen university. Based on members of the LGBTQI being excluded in these studies and some safe sex practices like masturbation neglected from prevention programmes, it was essential to undertake this study. The sexual script theory guided the researcher to explore the participants’ understanding and awareness of sexual behaviour, on various levels – socially, among peers, and personally. This qualitative study followed an exploratory and descriptive approach as it offered the participants an opportunity to express their views and possibly improve their awareness about safe sex practices and services. Six semi-structured interviews were conducted with five gay males and one non-binary pansexual who are registered undergraduate students at the chosen metropolitan university. Thematic data analysis was conducted, trustworthiness was achieved to reflect consistency and validity of the study, and ethical considerations were adhered to. Findings showed that participants were knowledgeable and aware of safe sex practices and services available to them at their university. They described factors such as culture, religion, and peer influence on their perception of safe sex practices and their views on safe sex practices such as internal and external condoms, masturbation, the use of sex toys, oral sex, and cybersex. Finally, they recommended more aggressive marketing to the institutional office and more open online forums and conferences to educate students especially the LGBTQI members. Limitations of this study can be used as a gap for future studies to address.M.A. (Clinical Social Work
Nagware: A form of improperly obtained consensus?
No full textLL.M. (Drafting and Interpretation of ContractsAbstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract
The reversal of credit transfers in South Africa and Ghana
Full text linkLL.M. (Banking Law)Abstract: Please refer to full text to view abstract
Data sources:
Access Repository Dashboard
Do you manage University of Johannesburg Institutional Repository? Access insider analytics, issue reports and manage access to outputs from your repository in the CORE Repository Dashboard!